Throw a party or potluck with a door fee. Everyone gives a little, but everyone also gets something out of it.

Have a tag sale and channel the money to the cause. And let buyers know your motives up front so they don't dicker over prices.

Hold an auction. See if any of your friends would be willing to donate a service—such as massage, dental work, or gift certificates to a restaurant, bar, inn, gym, yoga studio or bike shop—to be bid on. You can combine this with the potluck (above) for a more festive atmosphere.

Work your connections: What major company in your area already has a charity-line item in its budget this year? It could become your corporate underwriter and earn a special place on the team jerseys (see "Ride in Style," below). Who's in a band that can play at your fund-raiser? Maybe your local bike or coffee shop would be willing to host your function.

Ride in Style
Storm the event in your own team jerseys.

If you want a really dialed team look, consider the custom route. The companies listed on the chart below accept small-quantity jersey orders and offer a range of personal looks. Be advised: You'll need to order early, as custom clothing can require as many as three months to make. Also, know what you want before you call and prepare your graphics in a vector-based or high-resolution file. Some shops offer Web applications or blank templates for creating your team look. If you have skills in graphic design, you'll have more control and may save some cash. — Chris Knight